What to know about gas pain in the chest

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People may describe gas pain in the chest as a tightness or discomfort in the chest area. There may be a slight burning or stabbing sensation, and the pain may move to the abdomen.

Other symptoms of gas pain in the chest may vary depending on the cause but can include:

• burping
• bloating
• indigestion
• excess flatulence
• loss of appetite
• nausea

The sensation of gas pain can be worrying, as it may feel similar to heart-related pains, such as heart attack symptoms.

The following symptoms may suggest that chest pain is due to a heart attack:

• pain that resembles a strong pressure applied to the chest
• pain or discomfort in other areas of the upper body, including the:
  • neck
  • back
  • shoulders
  • arms
  • jaw, particularly in females
• shortness of breath or inability to catch the breath
• profuse sweating
• feeling lightheaded or dizzy
• nausea

A person experiencing symptoms of a heart attack should seek emergency medical attention.

Possible causes of gas pain in the chest include:

Heartburn

Heartburn is a type of indigestion that typically feels like a sharp, burning sensation that spreads upward from the stomach. It occurs due to stomach acid leaking up into the esophagus.

Food intolerance

A food intolerance can cause gas and pain. Lactose intolerance and gluten intolerance are two potential causes.

A person who lacks the enzymes necessary to break down certain foods may experience bloating, abdominal pain, and excessive gas.

Food poisoning

Eating contaminated food can cause food poisoning, which may also explain gas pain in the chest. Symptoms may begin between 30 minutes and 2 weeks of eating contaminated food, depending on the germs.

Other symptoms may include:

• fever
• nausea
• vomiting
• diarrhea
• blood in the stool

Artificial sweeteners

Some research suggests certain artificial sweeteners may contribute to gastrointestinal conditions and bowel inflammation, which may cause symptoms such as excessive gas.

Excess carbonation

Carbonated drinks, such as soda, tonic water, or sparkling water, contain carbon dioxide gas to provide a fizz.

Too much of this gas can make a person burp, but it might also build up in the digestive tract and cause discomfort or pain.

Swallowing air

Similarly to the carbon dioxide in fizzy drinks, the air we swallow when we eat, drink, or chew gum can become trapped in the digestive system.

Swallowing too much air can cause a buildup of gas in the gastrointestinal tract, leading to gas pain in the chest or abdomen.

Digestive conditions

Certain digestive conditions can cause symptoms that resemble gas pain in the chest.

Inflammatory conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), may cause gas to build up in the digestive system.

Other problems in the digestive tract, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), can cause similar symptoms.

Chronic inflammatory conditions may also produce the following symptoms:

• pain in the lower or upper abdomen
• excessive flatulence
• diarrhea
• constipation
• general fatigue
• gastrointestinal bleeding
• weight loss
• nausea

Too much fiber

While fiber-rich foods can benefit the digestive system, eating too much or increasing your intake too quickly can lead to excessive gas.

This excess production is because the fiber may stay in the gut longer than other food components. Bacteria breaks it down, resulting in gas.

Learn why people need dietary fiber.

Gallbladder or biliary tree diseases

A condition in the gallbladder or biliary tree, such as gallstones, can cause chest pain and excess gas.

Other symptoms of gallstones include:

• loss of appetite
• nausea
• vomiting
• chills
• off-colored stools, often light or pale color

A physical examination is usually not accurate enough for an exact diagnosis of chest pain, so a doctor may recommend additional tests, such as an electrocardiogram (ECG). An ECG can look for heart problems.

Once a doctor rules out heart concerns, they recommend other tests to identify and confirm possible causes of the chest pain. These can include:

• blood or skin tests to check for allergies or food intolerance
• tests for chronic inflammatory conditions, such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis
• abdominal ultrasound or CT scan

Treatment for gas pain in the chest often begins at home. The following home remedies may help to ease the pain of excess gas in the chest:

• Drink warm liquids: Drinking plenty of liquids can help to move excess gas through the digestive system, which can ease gas pain and discomfort. Warm water or herbal teas may ease discomfort for some people.
• Eat ginger: Ginger may help to manage and prevent symptoms of gastrointestinal issues, including bloating and excessive gas.
• Avoid triggers: If the exact cause of gas pain in the chest is unknown, it may be best to avoid any possible digestive triggers. This could include carbonated drinks, dairy products, or gluten.
• Exercise: Exercise may help gas to move through the digestive system. Even a simple walk around the block may help.

Medical treatments

Medical options are also available to relieve gas pain in the chest. Over-the-counter medications, such as bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto Bismol) may ease some indigestion symptoms.

Treatment for chronic conditions, such as IBD, may require prescriptions from a doctor, though treatment will vary depending on the underlying cause.

In most instances of food poisoning, a person can recover with home treatment, which should include rehydration. In worse cases, they may require antibiotics or time in the hospital.

In some cases, gallstones might be treatable with medication that may encourage the body to dissolve the stones over time.

Preventing gas pain can be as easy as avoiding triggers, including:

• carbonated beverages
• artificial sweeteners
• contaminated food
• foods that cause allergies or intolerances
• chewing gum

Regular exercise can also help keep the digestive system working well.

Complications related to excess gas in the chest are mostly due to an underlying condition. For instance, people with severe food poisoning or food intolerances may be at risk of complications.

Symptoms of anaphylaxis or food poisoning that require immediate medical care include:

• rashes or feeling warm in the face
• swelling of the throat, face, or mouth
• bloody stools or vomit
• diarrhea and dehydration

When a person experiences chest pain along with these symptoms, they should seek emergency medical care.

There are many causes of gas pain in the chest, and many treatments or home remedies that may help relieve the feeling. A proper diagnosis from a healthcare professional can determine the best treatment.

Harmless gas pain in the chest will typically go away quickly with home treatments or over-the-counter medicines. Taking preventive measures and seeking a medical diagnosis may help treat underlying issues and avoid complications.

Anyone experiencing other symptoms of more serious conditions should seek emergency medical attention.